Investors and coin enthusiasts alike have reason to celebrate with the launch of The Royal Mint’s 2024 Britannia 1oz platinum coin earlier this month. Struck in 999.5 fine platinum to the mint’s bullion standard, with a face value of £100, the coin joins the 2024 Britannia Collection, following the earlier release of the full gold editions and the 1oz silver edition. The 2024 1/10 oz platinum bullion Britannia will complete the collection when it arrives in early 2024.
Britannia has long featured on British coins and has been The Royal Mint’s flagship bullion coin collection since it was first introduced in 1987. The now iconic design was created by sculptor Philip Nathan whose bold concept includes carefully chosen symbols to reflect the UK’s national values – a shield for protection, an olive branch for peace and a trident to represent maritime links.
Commenting on the recent launch, Andrew Dickey, Director of Precious Metals for The Royal Mint, said:
“Distinguished by its advanced security features and traditional design, the Britannia provides a distinctive appeal for those looking to enrich their portfolios with a timeless investment."
According to The Royal Mint, the 2024 Britannia bullion coin redefines security in the market, leading the way as the most visually secure bullion coin in the world by incorporating special features. These include a latent image which switches between a trident and a padlock when the coin is rotated, as well as surface animation that creates a wave motion behind Britannia when the coin is moved.
Setting a precedent
Meanwhile, in China, the first platinum bar product from China Gold Coin Group Limited (CGCG) was recently unveiled at the Beijing International Coin Expo.
The Year of the Dragon Platinum Bar from China Gold Coin Group is available in two specifications, 10g and 100g, with the latter designed to be worn as a pendant
Crafted from 99.9 per cent pure platinum, The Year of the Dragon Platinum Bar is available in two specifications: 10g and 100g, with the former designed to be worn as a pendant. Its launch is the first time that platinum has been included in CGCG’s annual precious metals bar collection based on the twelve signs of the Chinese zodiac.
It also sets a new precedent regarding the issuance of platinum bars by institutions affiliated to China’s central bank-– such as CGCG – conferring a quasi-official status on them that aligns them with the way similar gold and silver products are viewed by investors in China.
The design of the Year of the Dragon Platinum Bar showcases long-established Chinese zodiac culture and is inspired by the mystery and agility of the iconic dragon, utilising elements of a seven-piece puzzle toy to create a modern dragon-shaped pattern with geometric shapes.
